Despite the cold and the rain, approximately 25 fans sat in the stands or stood on CHS’s track on April 4 to watch the soccer match. Both SOU and LBCC played gripping games with the final score being 4-1 to SOU.
LBCC Roadrunners worked an aggressive defense. TJ Comini , LBCC goalie, dove madly for the ball and had thrilling saves. Cesar Pablo Reyes darted into the skirmishes and attempted to steal control of the ball.
Mickey Allapach charged toward Southern Oregon’s goalie and managed to score LBCC’s first and only goal of the game.
Max Sampson played a feisty offense assisted by Motahana Al Zabidi. As a whole the team played a strong game.
Mark Uff says, “The team has good chemistry.”
While LBCC regularly stole the ball, they could not keep control of it and allowed three goals to glide through Comini’s outstretched arms.
Head Coach Art Mota comments, “The first half was disappointing. I think the effort was lacking on our part. They definitely out worked us. They took advantage of the open space ... we made some adjustments in the second half … played much better in the second half. The guys showed a little bit more heart, worked a little bit harder.”
The loss though is not devastating. Zabidi comments, “We tried our best. But we still have one more game. Next game we will do better.”
Amedce Ngarnkiye ads to the positive spirit: “We still have our pride.”
Everyone is looking forward the final upcoming game on April 17. This game will determine the Roadrunners placement in the league. The game will be held at LBCC, and Coach Mota believes the team will perform well.
“We still have something to play for. If we win our last game we can finish in third and then with the realignment the league is going to do next season we’d be in the Premiere league.”
Ian Chapman also has great faith in the team. “Our game has really stepped up this season. This is one hell of a team.”
At glance:
- final score: 4-1 SOU
- for past and future game details check out the Cascade Collegiate Soccer League website
- for more info about the soccer club check it out on LBCC's website
- if you want to join the soccer club email club advisor Coach Art Mota at art.mota@linnbenton.edu or call 541-917-4467
- next home game: April 17 12 p.m. LBCC Albany Campus
